From sipping your way through Lombardy wine tours to hopping between charming lakeside villages, day trips from Bergamo offer the perfect mix of culture, flavor, and scenery. This northern Italian city is more than just a stopover near the airport, it’s a launchpad to some of the region’s most unforgettable experiences. Think medieval towns perched on hills, mountain hideaways where time slows down, and vineyards where a glass of Franciacorta comes with views you’ll want to frame. You’ve got one day or a whole weekend, Bergamo’s location makes it easy to swap city strolls for lake breezes, mountain air, or wine-country sunsets, all without losing that unmistakable Italian charm.
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Best things to do on your day trip from Bergamo
1- Wander through Piazza Vecchia in Città Alta
Before heading out on your day trip from Bergamo, start in the heart of Città Alta at Piazza Vecchia, the city’s most iconic square and a perfect warm-up for the adventures ahead. Surrounded by frescoed palazzi, lively cafés, and layers of history, it’s a spot that invites you to slow down for a moment. Grab a coffee, take in the atmosphere, then pop into the Palazzo della Ragione. Before you leave, head up the Torre Civica for panoramic views, if you return in the evening, you might even catch the 100 chimes that have marked 10 PM for centuries.
2- Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Just a short stroll from Piazza Vecchia, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Italy’s true architectural showstoppers. Built in the 12th century, it mixes Romanesque roots with a lavish Baroque interior that will have you looking up the whole time. Step inside to see intricate woodwork, vibrant frescoes, and centuries of history packed into every corner, all right next to the equally impressive Cappella Colleoni.
3- Walk through Porta San Giacomo
The white marble Porta San Giacomo is more than just a gateway, it’s the grand send-off from Bergamo’s Città Alta. Once a defensive entrance through the Venetian walls, it now frames one of the most stunning panoramic views over the city and the Lombard plains. Snap a photo, take in the scenery, and let this be your final stop before you head out for the best day trips from Bergamo.
4- Enjoy a spa day at San Pellegrino Terme
Ready to swap cobblestones for warm, bubbling waters? Just 30 minutes from Bergamo, San Pellegrino Terme is your ticket to pure relaxation. Known for its elegant Art Nouveau buildings and world-famous thermal springs, this spa town offers steamy pools, panoramic saunas, and blissful treatments that feel like a reset button for your body. The perfect day trip from Bergamo if you’re craving a little wellness with your wanderlust.
5- Escape to Lake Iseo and Monte Isola
Want those dreamy lake views without the crowds of Lake Como? Hop on a direct train from Bergamo to Lake Iseo, then catch a ferry to Monte Isolathe largest lake island in Europe. No cars, just quiet cobbled lanes, charming fishing villages, and hillsides draped in olive groves. It’s the kind of place where you linger over a long lunch and a glass of local wine. Perfect if you’re exploring northern Italy and want to mix in something a little different from the classic of Lake Como.
6- Venture on a day trip to Lake Como
Treat yourself to just an hour’s train ride from Bergamo to Como, where shimmering waters meet elegant villas and an alpine backdrop. Stroll along the lakefront, wander the stylish streets, and pause for an apéritif with a view. While it’s one of the best day trips from Bergamo, it also opens the door to explore even more day trips from Lake Como, think charming villages, boat rides, and hillside hikes. And if you want to add a delicious twist, book a wine tasting Lake Como session to sip your way through the region’s unique vintages before heading back.
7- Discover the ruins and art of Clusone
A lesser-known gem near Bergamo, Clusone charms with its haunting Danse Macabre fresco and character-packed historic center. It’s the kind of place where you can wander quiet cobbled streets, pause in little piazzas, and stumble upon centuries-old details at every turn. Just under an hour by train from Bergamo, it’s perfect for an easy afternoon escape that blends art, history, and small-town warmth.
8- Uncover Sirmione Near Lake Garda
About 1.5 hours from Bergamo by car, Sirmione is the perfect mix of ancient history and lakeside indulgence. Wander the Roman villa ruins at the Grotte di Catullo, soak in the famous thermal springs, and linger over a glass of crisp Lugana wine by the water. Sirmione easily earns a top spot on the list of best day trips from Bergamo.
9- Wander around Brescia
In under 50 minutes by train, you can swap Bergamo’s hilltop views for the Roman heart of Brescia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with treasures, from the ancient Roman forum and the Temple of Capitolium to frescoed palazzi that rival Italy’s grandest cities. Between museum stops and strolls through its elegant piazzas, carve out time for a visit to the Brescia Wineries and discover the nearby Franciacorta sparkling wines.
If you’re mapping out the things to do in Brescia Italy, this easy day trip is the perfect blend of history, culture, and a well-earned glass of bubbly.
10- Loose yourself in Verona
Lose yourself in the charm of Verona, a city where Roman history and Renaissance elegance walk hand in hand. From the majestic Arena to Juliet’s famous balcony, the things to do in Verona are as varied as they are unforgettable. Stroll through cobblestone streets, linger in lively piazzas, and let the city’s timeless beauty guide your steps. And if you’re a wine lover, the nearby Valpolicella region is calling. Join one of the Verona wine tours to sip bold reds and delicate Amarone right at the source.
11- Stroll through Lecco
Just under an hour from Bergamo by direct train or bus, Lecco is a peaceful escape that blends mountain views with lakeside charm. You can stroll along the waterfront, follow scenic walking trails, and stop for a coffee or gelato with the lake right at your side. For an easy extra adventure, hop on a ferry to explore nearby villages before heading back to Bergamo. It’s a short and refreshing day trip that’s perfect when you want nature, calm, and beautiful views all in one go.
12- Head to Milan
Approximately 50 minutes from Bergamo by train, Milan is the perfect urban contrast to the city’s medieval charm. Italy’s fashion and design capital is bursting with iconic sights, from the spires of the Duomo to the boutiques of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Spend your morning ticking off must-sees, then linger over a long lunch before diving into the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Milan also makes a great base for wider adventures, it’s the starting point for some of the most exciting day trips from Milan, and if you’re a foodie, you can easily pair sightseeing with a wine tasting Milan experience to sample Lombardy’s finest reds and sparkling Franciacorta.
Good to know before day trips from Bergamo
What are the best day trips from Bergamo?
Bergamo is a fantastic starting point for day trips to northern Italy’s most iconic destinations. Popular options include:
- Lake Como – Explore charming lakeside towns like Varenna and Bellagio.
- Lake Garda – Visit Sirmione or Desenzano for beautiful lakeside views and Roman ruins.
- Verona – Discover the city of Romeo and Juliet, filled with Roman architecture and romantic charm.
- Milan – Just under an hour away by train for shopping, art, and architecture.
- Venice – Reachable by high-speed train for an unforgettable day exploring canals and palaces.
Can I take day trips from Bergamo by train?
Absolutely. Bergamo has a convenient train station with regular services to many regional destinations. Here are approximate travel times and suggestions:
- Milan – ~50 minutes by regional train.
- Verona – ~1 hour 30 minutes with a transfer in Brescia or Milan.
- Lake Como – Take a train to Lecco (~40 minutes) or Varenna (~1 hour via Milan or Lecco).
- Lake Garda – Travel to Desenzano or Peschiera del Garda (~1.5 to 2 hours with transfers).
- Venice – ~3 hours with transfers; best done with an early departure.
What are the best day trips from Bergamo without a car?
Many day trips are entirely feasible by train or bus. Recommended destinations without a car include:
- Milan – Direct train in under 1 hour.
- Varenna (Lake Como) – Train via Lecco.
- Como city – Train via Monza (~1.5 hours).
- Brescia – Direct train (~50 minutes), great for culture and Franciacorta wine tastings.
How do I get from Bergamo to Lake Como for a day trip?
From Bergamo, take a train to Lecco (direct, ~40 minutes) or switch trains at Monza for Como San Giovanni station (~1.5 hours total). From there, you can explore lakeside towns via ferry or bus. The Varenna–Bellagio–Menaggio triangle is one of the most scenic options.
Is a day trip from Bergamo to Verona worth it?
Yes, Verona is a picturesque and culturally rich city, easily reached by train from Bergamo via Brescia. Travel time is ~1.5 hours. Once there, explore Juliet’s balcony, the Roman arena, and the charming historic center. It’s very walkable and manageable in a day.
How many days should I spend in Bergamo itself?
Bergamo is often overlooked, but its stunning Città Alta (Upper Town), medieval architecture, homemade cuisine, and tranquil atmosphere deserve at least 1–2 full days. It’s especially beautiful in the evening when day-trippers leave, and the cobbled streets are quieter.
Where can I go from Bergamo Airport for a day trip?
Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) is well-connected. You can reach Bergamo city center in 15 minutes, and from there:
- Milan – Accessible by shuttle buses or via train from Bergamo station.
- Lakesides: Lecco and Lake Iseo are excellent nearby options with bus and train connections.
- Direct buses connect from the airport to Milan and Brescia for quick day trips.
What are the best hotels in Bergamo?
Stay close to Bergamo’s train station for easy access to transportation or choose hotels in the atmospheric Città Alta for charm. Top hotel options include:
- GombitHotel – Stylish boutique hotel in the Upper Town, near historic sites.
- Hotel Excelsior San Marco – Centrally located with rooftop views over the city.
- B&B Hotel Bergamo – Modern and budget-friendly, steps from the train station.
What are the best restaurants in Bergamo?
Bergamo is the birthplace of traditional rustic Bergamasco cuisine. Recommended restaurants include:
- Trattoria Parietti – Family-run eatery serving local favorites like casoncelli (stuffed pasta) and polenta taragna.Il Circolino – Authentic dishes in a historic social club setting in Città Alta, with excellent value.Da Mimmo – Handmade pastas and great wine list, popular among locals and tourists alike.Osteria Al Gigianca – A modern twist on Bergamo cuisine, located near the Lower Town.
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